The prefix “doom” in the term “doom metal” supposes that the music is going to deal with some dark and apocalyptic themes, either of the temporal or personal. In the case of The Gates Of Slumber’s most recent platter, the focus is on the latter, as the band moves back to its doomier roots, after a few records that added traditional metal to the mix, focusing on themes of loss, frustration, and death and once again delivering another stunning album.

Gone are the fantasy themes and the galloping metal — they’ve been replaced by a St. Vitus stomp and existential themes that are similar to the ones expressed in such songs as “Paranoid” by Black Sabbath. The band’s leader Karl Simon has been going through some heavy shit since we last heard from them, and all those personal frustrations come out through the music and lyrics. It’s a truly heavy album, but not just because of the brontosaurus stomp of the music — the lyrics are heavy, too.

“Bastards Born” establishes the back to basic approach with a lead heavy riff, broken up by a soulful solo by Simon. “Day Of Farewell” posits a protagonist who is tired of life and can’t go on any more, once again bolstered by catchy riffs and more excellent soloing, while the title track posits even more tales of realistic human woe and provides an emotional centerpiece for the album.

One would think with all the negativity going around this would be a depressing album, in a way it is, but in another way, this provides one hell of a catharsis for anyone going through tough times. If you think about, this record is perfectly suited for the uncertain times we live in. It may sound like a throwback in some regards, but its themes couldn’t be more current.

It may be early in the year, but I think it’s a safe bet to say that this is easily of the best metal records of the year, and that anyone who has any interest in well-written heavy music, full of heart, emotion, and soul (and free of irony) should definitely check this out. Very highly recommended.

(Metal Blade Records, 5737 Kanan Road #143, Agoura Hills, CA 91301)